As the global job market continues to evolve, blue-collar careers—often dismissed in favor of white-collar office roles—are proving to be just as lucrative, if not more so. In 2025, skilled labor remains in high demand across Canada, the United States, and other advanced economies. With the expansion of technology, construction, energy, and logistics sectors, many blue-collar jobs now offer six-figure potential, job security, and career advancement—without requiring a four-year degree.
In this article, we examine 10 high-paying blue-collar jobs that are projected to earn over $70,000 this year, based on recent labor market data and trends.
Table of Contents
1. Elevator and Escalator Installers & Repairers
- Average Salary: $100,000 – $120,000
- Top Earners: Over $140,000
- Training: High school diploma + 4-5 year apprenticeship
- Job Outlook: Steady growth due to rising urban development and infrastructure upgrades
Elevator mechanics are among the highest-paid trades in North America. Their work involves installing, maintaining, and repairing elevators, escalators, and similar systems in commercial and residential buildings.
2. Power Plant Operator
- Average Salary: $85,000 – $110,000
- Top Earners: $130,000+
- Training: On-the-job training + certification/licensing
- Job Outlook: Moderate, with high demand in utilities and clean energy sectors
Operators are responsible for controlling and monitoring power-generating equipment. Despite automation, experienced operators remain in high demand, particularly in nuclear and renewable energy facilities.
3. Construction Manager (Field-Supervisor Path)
- Average Salary: $90,000 – $115,000
- Top Earners: $130,000+
- Training: Apprenticeship or experience-based promotion
- Job Outlook: Strong demand with infrastructure booms across cities
Many construction managers rise from the ranks of carpenters, electricians, or general contractors. With strong leadership and organizational skills, these professionals oversee project timelines, budgets, and compliance.
4. Industrial Electrician
- Average Salary: $75,000 – $100,000
- Top Earners: $120,000+
- Training: Red Seal certification or equivalent apprenticeship
- Job Outlook: High, especially in manufacturing hubs
Industrial electricians install and maintain heavy electrical systems in factories, power plants, and data centers. As industrial automation continues to grow, this trade remains essential and well-compensated.
5. Lineworker (Power Line Technician)
- Average Salary: $80,000 – $105,000
- Top Earners: $120,000+
- Training: Apprenticeship + certification
- Job Outlook: Very strong due to grid expansion and storm-related maintenance
These professionals build and repair the power lines that supply electricity to homes and businesses. It’s a physically demanding and dangerous job, but one of the highest-paying blue-collar careers.
6. Boilermaker
- Average Salary: $78,000 – $95,000
- Top Earners: Over $110,000
- Training: Apprenticeship + safety certifications
- Job Outlook: Moderate, with specialized demand in energy and shipbuilding
Boilermakers install and repair boilers, vats, and large vessels. Their work is heavy-duty, often involving welding and mechanical assembly, especially in factories and industrial plants.
Should you find this piece engaging, we kindly invite you to explore the wealth of content in our other articles:
7. Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT)
- Average Salary: $75,000 – $90,000
- Top Earners: Over $100,000 with experience and certifications
- Training: Technical college or military training + certification
- Job Outlook: Growing with increased air travel and cargo logistics
AMTs inspect and service aircraft engines and systems. A focus on safety, attention to detail, and industry certification make this a highly respected and well-paid profession.
8. Crane Operator
- Average Salary: $72,000 – $95,000
- Top Earners: $110,000+ in major metro or high-rise projects
- Training: Apprenticeship or vocational training + licensing
- Job Outlook: Strong in construction and shipping industries
Operating heavy cranes on construction sites or ports requires precision and training. It’s a physically less demanding job with high safety responsibilities and excellent wages.
9. HVAC Technician (Senior or Specialized)
- Average Salary: $70,000 – $85,000
- Top Earners: Over $100,000 (commercial/industrial level)
- Training: Trade school + certification
- Job Outlook: Excellent, especially in green building retrofits
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) professionals are increasingly in demand as buildings transition to intelligent, efficient climate control systems. Senior-level HVAC techs or those running their businesses can earn very competitive incomes.
10. Plumber (Master Level or Business Owner)
- Average Salary: $70,000 – $90,000
- Top Earners: $100,000+
- Training: Apprenticeship + Red Seal license or provincial certification
- Job Outlook: Consistently strong due to ongoing construction and repair needs
Plumbing isn’t just about fixing pipes. Skilled plumbers can work in gas fitting, commercial systems, and even hydronic heating. Business ownership or specialized licensing significantly increases earning potential.
What Defines a Blue-Collar Job in 2025?
Blue-collar jobs are typically defined by hands-on, skilled labor in industries like construction, manufacturing, energy, and transportation. What’s changed in 2025 is the modernization of many of these roles:
- Many require technical certifications or digital skills
- Most are less physically demanding than in previous decades
- Earnings now rival or surpass white-collar jobs with university degrees
With minimal college debt and rising salaries, these jobs are particularly appealing to younger generations seeking financial stability and a sense of purpose.
Final Thoughts
Blue-collar doesn’t mean low-paying. The trades are not only surviving—they’re thriving in 2025. The combination of high demand, aging workforces, and technological advancement is driving wages up and opening the door for motivated individuals to enter these careers.
Whether you’re just graduating high school or looking to change paths mid-career, these jobs offer the possibility of earning over $70,000 per year—without a degree and delay.
If you want work that’s hands-on, future-proof, and financially rewarding, these ten careers are worth serious consideration.
